Deshaun Watson gets unexpected Stephen A. Smith praise as Browns lead AFC North
· Yahoo Sports
Stephen A. Smith has named Deshaun Watson his early favorite for NFL Comeback Player of the Year after the Cleveland Browns improved to 5-2. The quarterback has helped Cleveland take first place in the AFC North with a series of dramatic fourth-quarter victories.
Speaking on ESPN’s First Take, Smith praised Watson’s turnaround after his difficult previous season. The Browns defeated the Tennessee Titans 27-24 on Sunday, earning their fifth win in six games.
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“Deshaun Watson right now is the Comeback Player of the Year. Right now,” Smith said.
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Co-host Chris Canty admitted that giving Watson such recognition felt uncomfortable. Smith, however, insisted that the quarterback’s recent performances justified the praise.
“It’s uncomfortable to say it, but it’s true,” Smith said. “Five wins, first place in the division. All five wins will come from behind victories in the fourth quarter, led by him.”
Watson delivered another clutch performance against Tennessee, throwing for 308 yards (his first 300+ yards game for the Browns) and running for a touchdown. His late connection with Harold Fannin Jr. set up Andre Szmyt’s game-winning 32-yard field goal as time expired.
Browns’ Todd Monken also earns recognition
Oct 11, 2026; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken looks on during the first half against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)Smith also praised first-year Browns head coach Todd Monken for his work during Cleveland’s unexpected start.
“Him, as far as I’m concerned, Monken is one of the top coaches of the year,” Smith said.
Canty agreed, responding, “Oh, no doubt. No doubt.”
The Browns have shown resilience throughout their early schedule, repeatedly recovering from fourth-quarter deficits. Watson’s ability to make plays under pressure has become a defining feature of their season.
Against Tennessee, Cleveland overcame an early 14-0 deficit before securing the victory in the final seconds. Running back Quinshon Judkins added two touchdowns, while rookie receiver KC Concepcion recorded eight catches for 129 yards.
Watson’s individual numbers have not necessarily placed him among the league’s statistical leaders. However, his clutch performances have changed the conversation surrounding his future.
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Cleveland now sits atop the AFC North with a 5-2 record. The Browns visit the Pittsburgh Steelers next Sunday, offering Watson another opportunity to strengthen his comeback case.
Smith’s praise marks a notable shift in the conversation around Watson. If Cleveland continues winning, his early-season resurgence could become one of the NFL’s biggest stories.
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